In Ephesians 2:8-10, we read: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”
The son asked the father for his inheritance. He took off to a place he could live as he wished. He had many friends who shared in his lavish lifestyle--until his inheritance was squandered. Left alone, hungry and miserable, he took any menial job available--even to feeding pigs and scavenging from the pigpen. Finally he decided to go home. Working as a servant in his father’s house would be better than his present state if his father would have him.
The son was accepted with open arms. The father cleaned him up, dressed him in royal robes, put shoes on his feet. Even had a feast in his honor. One problem. His older brother didn’t like the attention given to his worthless younger brother. He made his point as he railed against his father.
The father explained, “Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.”
I’m sure you recognize the story of the prodigal son. As I read this account of the “two sons,” I realize each day how our Lord loves us and allows us to make choices in our lives. I realize, too, that both brothers have a problem. Neither realizes the love the father has for him.
But what about grace? The father gave his inheritance or gift to both sons. In spite of their attitudes toward their father. He has done the same for you and me. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.
Kingdom Thinking. I praise the Lord for choosing me to be in His family. He has blessed me with His Love and forgiveness. He has promised never to leave nor forsake me. No matter if you are a “stay-at-home prodigal” or a “run-away prodigal,” He loves you, too. Won’t you come to Him?
I’m sure you recognize the story of the prodigal son. As I read this account of the “two sons,” I realize each day how our Lord loves us and allows us to make choices in our lives. I realize, too, that both brothers have a problem. Neither realizes the love the father has for him.
But what about grace? The father gave his inheritance or gift to both sons. In spite of their attitudes toward their father. He has done the same for you and me. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works.
Kingdom Thinking. I praise the Lord for choosing me to be in His family. He has blessed me with His Love and forgiveness. He has promised never to leave nor forsake me. No matter if you are a “stay-at-home prodigal” or a “run-away prodigal,” He loves you, too. Won’t you come to Him?